Brazilian Deputy Júlia Zanatta Calls for TCU Audit of Bolsa Família Street Beneficiaries

Federal deputy Júlia Zanatta (PL‑SC) submitted a representation to the Tribunal de Contas da União (TCU) on 7 July 2026 requesting an operational audit of the Bolsa Família programme. The request focuses on the registration and control mechanisms for families in a situation of street homelessness, which she says have become a fiscal risk.

Zanatta points to data from the Ministry of Development and Social Assistance showing the number of street‑family beneficiaries rose from about 130,000 in 2023 to 272,971 in April 2026 – an increase of more than 110 % after a July 2025 policy change that waived the residence‑proof requirement and prioritized this group. She argues the lack of specific audits and weakened controls heighten the risk of fraud and irregularities.

The deputy asks the TCU to examine the evolution of beneficiaries over the past five years, request detailed information on benefits granted, suspended, cancelled or reviewed for fraud, and, if irregularities are found, recommend stricter controls and possible restitution. She stressed, “A proteção social não pode servir de escudo à ausência de controle: proteger o vulnerável e proteger o erário são deveres simultâneos, não excludentes.”